"Jeff Varner is an internet project manager, having most recently worked as Director of People and Process for a Manhattan start-up company. There he developed and managed the technical and interpersonal aspects of a Human Resources/Operations hybrid system for a staff of 30. Prior employment includes work as a website producer, graphic designer and marketing manager for various companies.

Varner obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Earlier employment included stints as a waiter, bartender and traveling salesperson. He is most proud of successfully making the transition from small town living to the much faster pace of a big city.

An aggressive athlete, he first put on a pair of skates when he was two years old and has since played competitive hockey (right defense) for 16 years, though he admits he spent most of the time in the penalty box. Additionally, he studied martial arts, receiving a black belt in Tae Kwon Do when he was 15 years old. While pursuing his degree with UNC, he was Captain of the National Champion Tar Heel Cheer Team (1989-90). He is an avid rollerblader, spending many afternoons skating through Manhattan's busy streets.

Varner describes himself as provocative, energetic, competitive, adventurous, and a free spirit who will try anything twice. His favorite television show is Sex and the City while his favorite feature films are 'Coal Miner's Daughter' and 'The Matrix.' He likes all kinds of music, especially that which motivates.

His perfect day includes a trip to the mountains with someone special for a day of hiking and nature (including a swim at a breathtaking waterfall). The day finishes with a jog, a shower, a bottle of Merlot, a ruthless game of backgammon, and great sex.

Born and raised in Greensboro, North Carolina, Varner currently lives in Manhattan, New York. He is a member of the Society of Human Resources. His respect, love and concern for children motivates him to volunteer for organizations and charities that support kids with need. Currently, he is researching burn trauma organizations for kids with the hope of making a difference. His birth date is April 16."

"What skills do you bring to Survivor that will make you a useful member of the group and what skills have you been learning since you last played?
I’ll be much more useful at challenges and intend to be more instrumental around camp. I want strong relationships when this is over, but already have a host of great friends.

I make mistakes, but I'm a good person with a good heart. I hope America sees that. But if my competition doesn't, their loss.

How will you play differently this time?
I want to have more fun this time. I’ll combine my Outback and Cambodia styles—hard gameplay with a more subtle approach. I plan to try and control my emotions more. As best as circumstances allow, I’ll manage a swap better.

I plan to align myself with the big threats. Even if I end up in the minority after a swap, I'll make sure there is someone else with me who is more of a target.

This time, it’s all business. I'd love to make the Jury finally, but if I don't, I want to make sure I've soaked it all up in a way that it's okay."